Frankfurt for Foodies: Traditional Dishes, Markets & Street Eats| Fraser Suites Frankfurt

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Frankfurt for Foodies: Traditional Dishes, Markets & Street Eats

24 September 2025

Discover Frankfurt Delicacies: Must-Try Dishes & Where to Eat

Frankfurt is more than Germany's financial hub. Beneath the skyline of glass towers is a city alive with flavours, from centuries-old taverns serving rustic plates to bustling markets overflowing with fresh produce. For travellers who see food as the best entry point into culture, Frankfurt offers a city break rich with culinary traditions, international influences, and plenty of sightseeing in between.

Traditional German Food in Frankfurt

Classic Dishes to Try

Frankfurt's culinary identity is deeply rooted in hearty, comforting dishes. Staples include Frankfurter Würstchen (smoked sausages), Handkäse mit Musik (a pungent cheese with onions and vinegar), and Frankfurter Rippchen (pork chops served with sauerkraut and potatoes). Many meals are enhanced by Grüne Soße, a tangy herb sauce made with seven different herbs that is beloved across the region. No foodie visit is complete without a glass of Apfelwein (apple wine), the city's iconic drink, served in blue-grey stoneware jugs called Bembel.

Apfelwein houses also serve sparkling or sweetened variations, making it accessible to all palates. And don't miss dessert: the Frankfurter Kranz, a crown-shaped sponge cake layered with buttercream and jam, encrusted in caramelised nuts, and dusted with cherries, a sweet symbol of the city's culinary pride. Discover more must-try dishes in our Frankfurt Delicacies guide.

Cosy Taverns and Local Restaurants

For the most authentic experience, head to the Sachsenhausen district, famous for its rustic apple wine taverns. Long wooden benches, dim lighting, and communal tables create a convivial atmosphere where locals and travellers share hearty plates. Menus here often haven't changed in decades, which is part of the charm, classics are served with little embellishment, exactly as generations of Frankfurters have enjoyed them. Dishes like schnitzel, sausages, and potato pancakes pair perfectly with tart Apfelwein. These taverns offer not just food, but a glimpse into Frankfurt's social fabric, a place where evenings stretch late into the night over laughter and clinking glasses.

Oktoberfest, German beer festival in Frankfurt

Markets and Food Halls - A Local Experience

Kleinmarkthalle

No foodie trip to Frankfurt is complete without a wander through Kleinmarkthalle. This bustling indoor market is a one-stop shop for local and international flavours. Stalls overflow with bread, cheeses, cured meats, and spices, while international counters serve everything from Italian pastries to Spanish tapas. Snack as you go, pick up a pretzel, sample regional sausages, or enjoy a slice of cake with coffee.

Highlights include Metzgerei Schreiber, known for its sausages, and MainLobster, which brings a splash of seafood to the mix. The atmosphere is a feast for the senses: the aroma of smoked meats mingling with roasted coffee, stallholders chatting with regulars, and visitors sampling delicacies before committing to a purchase.

Weekly Farmers' Markets

Frankfurt's open-air farmers' markets, particularly those at Konstablerwache and Schillerstrasse, offer another way to experience the city's food culture. Seasonal produce fills the stalls: cherries and berries in summer, chestnuts in autumn, and freshly baked bread year-round. Shopping at these markets gives you a taste of local life, with stallholders happy to recommend their favourites or share family recipes.

In September, you might encounter Federweißer, a young, slightly sparkling wine that appears for only a few weeks each year, alongside mushrooms and orchard fruits that mark the start of autumn. Locals arrive early with baskets in hand, creating a vibrant community scene that visitors are welcomed into.

Where to Stay to Enjoy Frankfurt Food

For those looking to fully immerse themselves in Frankfurt’s exquisite food scene, staying in a central location is key. Capri by Fraser Frankfurt offers the perfect base, allowing easy access to the city's renowned restaurants, food markets, and seasonal food festivals. Whether you're craving authentic Frankfurt food like Frankfurter Rippchen or exploring innovative modern restaurants, this prime location ensures you're never far from the best dining experiences.

Frasers Hospitality's serviced apartments, including well-appointed deluxe, studio and one-bedroom options, provide the perfect blend of comfort and convenience for short or extended stays. Each apartment is designed to feel like a home away from home, with modern amenities and kitchenettes that allow guests to prepare their own meals and embrace the local food. After a day exploring local markets such as Kleinmarkthalle or dining at iconic spots along the River Main, guests can unwind in spacious accommodations that offer both relaxation and practicality.

In addition to fully equipped apartments, Capri by Fraser Frankfurt boasts excellent on-site facilities, such as a fitness centre for a post-meal workout, parking, and high-speed Wi-Fi to stay connected while planning your next food adventure. With proximity to a wide variety of dining options and food hotspots, Frasers Hospitality ensures a seamless stay, making it the perfect choice for those wanting to enjoy both comfort and exploration in Frankfurt. Book directly to secure the best rates and enjoy an unforgettable experience.

Capri by Fraser Frankfurt, hotel apartment to stay for Oktoberfest, German beer festival in Frankfurt

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Capri by Fraser Frankfurt has special offers on rooms running throughout the year. Take a look at our latest hotel deals to see what our current offers are.

And remember that you’ll always get the best rate on one of our suites by booking directly on our website.

Street Eats and International Flavours

Global Cuisine in a German City

Frankfurt's multicultural population ensures its street food goes well beyond sausages. Turkish kebabs, Middle Eastern mezze, and Asian noodle bowls are staples across the city. Food trucks often pop up at festivals and fairs, offering dishes from across the globe. This diversity makes Frankfurt especially rewarding for food lovers who enjoy mixing local classics with international flavours in one trip.

Turkish doner kebabs, for example, have become so integral that many consider them part of Frankfurt's everyday food scene. Vietnamese pho shops and Korean barbecue joints further highlight the city's diversity, ensuring every craving can be satisfied. Exploring Frankfurt's international flavours gives a sense of how global influences sit comfortably alongside traditional German fare.

Popular German Snacks on the Go

When sightseeing fills your day, quick bites are essential. Street vendors sell pretzels, currywurst, and bratwurst at train stations and public squares. These affordable staples are tasty, filling, and ideal for grabbing between museum visits or shopping trips. Pair them with a cold local beer or refreshing fruit juice for the full Frankfurt experience.

At festival times, you'll also find candied nuts, roasted chestnuts, and crêpes being served from stalls, their sweet aromas drifting through the streets. Sampling these small bites as you walk connects you with a tradition of snacking that is as much about atmosphere as it is about sustenance.

Recommended image: https://media.istockphoto.com/id/540971720/photo/traditional-german-currywurst-served-with-chips-on-disposable-p.jpg?s=2048x2048&w=is&k=20&c=i_tRJ4EPv8JiI_Wfa89rRcWlBNchGovdGso_ONyJW2Y=

Sightseeing in Frankfurt Between Meals

Römerberg and the Old Town

Frankfurt's historic Römerberg square is lined with timber-framed houses and cobbled streets that feel a world away from the city's skyscrapers. Visitors can explore the medieval Römer building, once the city hall, and pause for coffee and cake in nearby cafés. Apple cake with cream is a local favourite here, offering a sweet pause between sightseeing stops. The square also hosts seasonal markets and festivals, so time your visit right and you might find folk music or craft stalls filling the square. Learn more in our Things to do in Frankfurt guide.

Museums and the Riverbank

Along the River Main lies the Museumsufer, a cultural hub packed with museums dedicated to art, history, and film. From the Städel Museum's Old Masters to the Museum of Communication's interactive exhibits, there's something for every interest. Break up museum-hopping with lunch on a riverside terrace, enjoying dishes with a view of the water.

The riverbanks also come alive with joggers, cyclists, and families enjoying the wide green spaces. Pack a picnic from the markets and spend an hour or two relaxing here, it's one of the best ways to slow down and enjoy Frankfurt between cultural stops.

Recommended Day Trips for Foodies

For those with extra time, the nearby Rheingau wine region is a must. Just a short train ride away, this area is famed for its Riesling vineyards and charming villages. Visitors can tour wine cellars, taste local vintages, and sample regional delicacies such as cheeses and freshly baked breads. It's an ideal day trip that balances food, culture, and scenery.

Many wineries also offer guided walks through the vineyards during harvest season, explaining the process from grape to glass. In September, the landscape is particularly beautiful, with vines heavy with fruit and villages celebrating harvest festivals that pair music with food stalls. It's a day trip that feels both indulgent and educational.

Recommended Image: https://media.istockphoto.com/id/1835087174/photo/skyline-frankfurt-with-river-main.jpg?s=2048x2048&w=is&k=20&c=Y960ri2Ox4kFAwRn_mAHir1scrQ4Lq34F3dNURYlohg=

How to dress for Oktoberfest, German beer festival in Frankfurt

Plan Your Perfect Frankfurt Itinerary

8 Hours in Frankfurt for Foodies

Day 1: Start at Kleinmarkthalle, wander through Römerberg, and finish the evening at a Sachsenhausen tavern.

Day 2: Explore the Museumsufer, enjoy international street eats for lunch, and take a short day trip to the Rheingau wine region for dinner with vineyard views.

If you have a third day, consider exploring Palmengarten, Frankfurt's botanical garden, and then heading into the Westend for chic cafés and bakeries that showcase the city's modern side. This balances historic flavours with contemporary dining.

Tips for Food-Focused Travel

To make the most of your foodie trip, book popular taverns ahead, especially in Sachsenhausen, as they fill quickly. Farmers' markets are best in the mornings, so plan your visits early for the freshest produce. September also brings seasonal festivals like the Apple Wine Festival, a celebration of the drink that defines Frankfurt.

Practical tips: pick up a Frankfurt Card for unlimited transport and museum discounts, carry cash as some stalls don't accept cards, and learn a few German food terms, even a few words of German when ordering food is appreciated and adds to the experience.

Where to Stay - Fraser Suites Frankfurt

Comfort Meets Convenience

Centrally located, Fraser Suites Frankfurt provides easy access to markets, taverns, and cultural highlights. Spacious suites include fully equipped kitchens, allowing guests to experiment with fresh ingredients picked up at Kleinmarkthalle or the farmers' markets. Learn more in our Planning an Extended Stay in Frankfurt guide.

Why Fraser Suites is Perfect for Foodies

Fraser Suites offers flexibility for long-stay travellers, dine out in the city or enjoy a meal in with market-bought produce. After busy days exploring, guests can unwind in spacious rooms or wellness facilities, enjoying a peaceful retreat in the heart of Frankfurt.

FAQ: Planning Your Frankfurt Foodie Trip

What food is Frankfurt most famous for?

Apple wine, sausages, and Handkäse mit Musik are local favourites.

Where is the best place to try traditional German food in Frankfurt?
Sachsenhausen's apple wine taverns are the top spots for authentic meals.

What markets are worth visiting in Frankfurt?
Kleinmarkthalle, Konstablerwache, and Schillerstrasse farmers' markets are highlights.

What's the best time of year to visit Frankfurt for food?
Autumn is perfect for wine harvests and festivals, while summer offers vibrant markets and riverside dining.

Frankfurt for Foodies: Traditional Dishes, Markets & Street Eats

Discover Frankfurt Delicacies: Must-Try Dishes & Where to Eat